Emma Walton Obituary

Dr. Emma Lu Walton, 79, passed away on September 29, 2012, surrounded by her loving family at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, Alaska as a result of a massive stroke.

Emma was born in Forgan, Oklahoma to Charles and Betsy Suttle on October 8, 1932. Emma was the youngest of three children. She graduated from Forgan High School, University of Oklahoma, Bowie State College and obtained her EdD from the University of Southern California in 1982.

Emma was a lifelong educator with particular expertise in science teaching, science materials, and professional development. She taught High School Science for 10 years, served as a science supervisor for 19 years, and spent 4 years as a program director at the National Science Foundation. In "retirement", she was elected National Science Teachers Association President, served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Challenger Learning Center of Alaska, the Imaginarium, and the Campbell Creek Science Center. She was involved with the GLOBE program, worked with NASA education programs including the Explorer Schools program in Alaska, and with several National Science Foundation projects. Her influence in science education was vast and included a myriad of publications, nationwide presentations, and ground-level work both locally and nationally. The light in the Science Education world grew a little dimmer on the day of Emma's passing.

In 2011, Emma was awarded the Robert H. Carleton Award, the highest honor bestowed by the National Science Teachers Association. From her award: Emma's career has been exemplary and far-reaching in its impact on students, teachers, and friends of science education. She has developed wide support and energy for science education, effectively raising the standards for teaching science in communities nationwide, while never losing focus on what is important: the students.

As NSTA President, she formed the Blue Ribbon Commission, which was tasked with reorganizing and streamlining the governing structure for the association. Through her guidance and leadership, NSTA moved forward into the 21st Century. In addition, she has dedicated much time and effort to supporting the Alaska Science Teachers Association. Her work activities extended worldwide, as exemplified by the award she received for her work with schools on the tiny island of Saint Eustatius, Netherlands Antilles.

Dr. Emma Walton distinguished herself among science educators with her smile, work ethic, and her tireless dedication.

Emma was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and best friend to many. She showed us how to live life to the fullest with a smile, grace, and class.

Emma is survived by her best friend and beloved husband of almost 60 years, Jim C. Walton. She is also survived by her son Everett Walton (Terry Deal), daughter Candace Groeneveld (Michael), son Charles Walton (Monna), and son Jimmy K. Walton (Rebecca). Her beloved grandchildren: Rom Walton, Dax Walton, Desiree Walton , Greg Thornton (Sharonne), Todd Thornton (Jackie), Kelly Thornton, Joe and John Groeneveld , David Bartholomew , Misty Wright , Wayne Walton, Jayme Walton, Skyler Helton and Preston Key.

Great grandchildren - Ashlee, Tyler, Devyn, Braeden, Skylar, Elijah, Teagan, Rylan and many much loved nieces and nephews.

Emma was preceded in death by her parents; mother and father-in-law; brother George W. Suttle (Olivia), brother Elmer T. Suttle; nephew Charles Russel Suttle, and nephew George Fredrick Suttle.

A Celebration of Life will be held at East High Auditorium on Saturday, October 13 at 12:30 p.m. with a reception to follow. Emma's favorite colors were red and bright blue. In lieu of flowers, Emma's family requests that donations be made to:

National Science Teachers Association:

The John Glenn Center for Science Education

In honor of Dr. Emma Lu Walton

1840 Wilson Blvd

Arlington, VA 22201-3000.

For more information please contact Candy Groeneveld (907-952-7068) or Terry Deal (907-230-8344).

Published by Anchorage Daily News from Oct. 7 to Oct. 11, 2012.
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Memories and Condolences
for Emma Walton

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I moved across the street from Emma Lu when I was 3 years old. She was between my two oldest sisters in age, both of whom are deceased. I remember her father showing me how the tendons in a severed chicken foot worked. No wonder she was interested in science! We also spent some time in their cellar as a tornado approached.

I remember Emma Lu as a very sweet person although I haven't seen her since she left Forgan. I have lived in California since 1960, and it seems strange that she lived in Alaska.
Sincerely,
Elaine (Mayo) Manis

Elaine Mayo Manis

November 20, 2013

I just returned from a trip and heard the news. Emma and I worked together many years ago in science with ASD. She was always positive, caring, and just a wonderful human being. I will miss her greatly.

Sue Archer

October 29, 2012

I had the wonderful pleasure of working with Dr. Walton at the National Science Foundation. She had a beautiful disposition about herself, always smiling and giving encouragement. My heart and prayers go out to the Walton family -- I know that you will geatly miss her, but her legacy will forever live on in you. Be Blessed and Take care! Geneane

Mary (Geneane) Mason

October 17, 2012

Ken & Shelly Harris

October 16, 2012

Misty Wright

October 12, 2012

Jim,
Our sincerest thoughts go out to you and your family. We have truly valued you and Emma as our "Alaskan Connection" over the past decades. Emma was a friend to everyone and made the Science World magical to educators, students and their families. The seeds she planted bear fruit throughout the world. Emma was always the first person I would seek out at NSTA conventions....big hugs, sharing the latest and a super party hostess (always giving your smoked salmon its place of honor). Emma's spirit and dedication to quality science education will be carried on by the legions of teachers she touched. Again our sincerest thoughts to you and your family from the Redwood Country. Jeff & Pat Self

Jeff Self

October 11, 2012

I knew Emma through the Imaginarium and the Anchorage Museum's Science Advisory Committee, of which she was a founding member. Her devotion to the Imaginarium, to the museum, and to the children and families they serve were deep and sincere, as was everything about Emma. She was full of energy, good ideas, practical connections and endless good cheer. Emma's passing leaves a big hole. She was a truly remarkable person and will be dearly missed. Goodbye, Emma!

Richard Emanuel

October 10, 2012

I had the privilege of talking with Emma on a few occasions, she inspired so many through her love of science and students. Emma was instrumental in helping to start AMEREF - the Alaska Mineral & Energy Resource Education Fund - a 501c3 educational non profit. AMEREF has grown over the years and is now known as Alaska Resource Education (ARE) but we are still delivering a science based curriculum on Alaska's natural resources - something that Emma was instrumental in getting into the schools. Emma - your love of science and students will live on in in many different ways. I thought I'd share a photo of some of our students learning about the minerals industry.

Michelle Brunner

October 10, 2012

Betty and I send our sympathy to you, Jim, and the whole family. Betty and I always enjoyed visiting with Emma and taking her out to meals - we will miss that on our visits to Anchorage. Saddly, we have not made it north this year, but valued our visits in several recent years.
Emma was not only a friend, but also an inspiring fellow science educator to me. Her work has helped the profession in many ways.
I thank God that our paths crossed.

Delmar Janke

Delmar Janke

October 10, 2012

We are saddened by Emma's loss. What a wonderful difference she made in the world...a difference that will live forever through the lives of her students, family, and good friends. Blessings, Jim, to you and all your family.

Marianne and David Inman

October 10, 2012

I had the fortune of working with Emma Walton from 1978 to 1985 at the Anchorage School District. I was a high school student when I met her and she even hosted my bridal shower at her home. I decided to postpone college and begin a family and she always encouraged me to return to school. Thirty years later I began pre-requisites for UAA nursing program - finding myself in chemistry, biology, and microbiology. I remembered the encouraging words she spoke to me. I'm sorry I didn't get the chance to tell her how much she inspired me. She was a wonderful lady and my heart goes out to her family in their time of loss. She loved her family. She loved her work. She loved her life. She will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Stacey Beek

October 9, 2012

As a Providence PAWS therapy dog team member, I had the opportunity to sit with Ms. Walton on a few occasions. What a gracious and lovely lady. My condolences on your loss. God bless. Kelley, Kody, and Amber

Kelley H

October 9, 2012

Jim C and Emma Lu, you have been incredible friends and mentors to Ron and me. We'll miss Emma Lu's positive wisdom and love of learning, but we'll look forward to renewing our friendship with her in heaven! Our sympathies to all the Walton clan.

Ron and Sharon Gherman

October 8, 2012

My deepest sympathy to the Walton family. May God give you comfort at this diffficult time. Psalms 55:22.
Jem. Florida

October 7, 2012

Jim, It was such a treat every time I had something that brought me in contact with Emma. She was an inspiration and an example that made me a better person, that was renewed each time I was around her. I am so sorry for your loss and the loss to all those she touched.
Jenny Green Kremer

Jenny Green Kremer

October 7, 2012

Emma was truly an amazing individual that brought love and joy to all around her.

Jeremy Counter

October 7, 2012

Alaska has lost a magnificent teacher and brilliant advocate for Science Education. Emma was a gracious lady who worked tirelessly to improve access to Science for all students and will be greatly missed.

Mary Murphy

October 7, 2012

It has been over thirty years since I last saw Emma. She was a fine lady that made an impression on me that has lasted. May she rest in peace.

Tim McCue

October 7, 2012

Emma was the spark that ignited many projects as programs including Alaska Outdoor Week, an environmental learning program now in its 39th year. She is an inspiration to many in Alaska and the nation. I will miss her smile and enthusiasm.

Joette Storm

October 6, 2012

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